Guiding Principles and Values of Naturopathic Midwifery

Naturopathic midwives actively implement the following principles and values:

• Honoring the essential mystery of birth
• Respecting the inherent wisdom of Nature
• Acknowledging the unique nature of every birth
• Promoting childbirth as a natural, normal process of the life cycle
• Endeavoring to preserve the safety and intrinsic wellness of every mother and child throughout their journey of pregnancy and birth
• Respecting the dignity of cultural and spiritual traditions of the families in our care
• Committing to the education and empowerment of childbearing women and their families
• Partnering with women in making informed decisions
• Encouraging women to take responsibility for their own well-being and the well-being of the unborn child
• Promoting the accessibility of quality health care for all women and their families
• Synthesizing both the art and science of naturopathic midwifery by incorporating:
  medical and midwifery standards, clinical observations, theoretical knowledge, intuitive assessments, psycho-social and spiritual aspects
• Facilitating vaginal delivery and using medical interventions wisely
• Collaborating with other health care and social service providers
• Valuing relationships and continuity of care throughout the life cycle
• Respecting traditions, skills and knowledge of the midwifery community worldwide
• Incorporating the principles of naturopathic medicine into our personal and professional lives.

Midwifery Student Oath

Because I respect the wisdom of Nature,
honor the essential mystery of birth,
and value the abiding traditions of Midwifery...

I commit myself
to the education and empowerment
of childbearing women and their families.

I swear to keep the trust
and respect the dignity
of those in my care.

I vow to preserve
the intrinsic wellness of maternity
and will strive to ensure the safety of mother and child.

I promise to honor
both the art and the science of midwifery.

I pledge to respect
the cultural and spiritual traditions
of the women I serve.

I vow to champion
each woman's right
to shape her unique birthing experience.

I promise to promote bonding within families.
Before these witnesses,

I make this oath
to myself,
and to my community.

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